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UK semiconductor centre

Skills and Careers

Helping to grow the UK semiconductor workforce

People are at the heart of the UK’s semiconductor industry.

From scientists and engineers developing new technologies to technicians, operators and professionals helping businesses grow, the sector needs people with a wide range of skills, experiences and backgrounds.

Whether you’re discovering semiconductors for the first time, developing your skills, supporting the next generation or building your workforce, we want to make it easier to find the information, resources and opportunities you need.

Start by choosing the route that best describes you.

Why semiconductors?

Inspiration

Work on technology that matters

Semiconductors power everything from AI and healthcare to energy, transport, communications and space. A career in the industry gives you the opportunity to work on technologies that have a real impact on the world around us.

Progression

Build a career with possibilities

The industry needs a wide range of people. Opportunities span science, engineering, manufacturing, software, data, business and many other disciplines, with routes to develop, specialise and progress throughout your career.

Innovation

Solve the biggest problems

Semiconductors operate at the very limits of science and engineering. Whether you’re developing new materials, designing circuits or improving manufacturing processes, you’ll have the chance to tackle complex challenges and keep learning.

“Semiconductors are at the heart of almost every major technological advancement, making this one of the most exciting industries to build a career in. From scientists and engineers to technicians, designers and business professionals, there are opportunities for people with an incredible range of skills and backgrounds. But to realise the UK’s full potential, we need to attract more people into the sector, open up new pathways and ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute. The future of semiconductors depends on the talent we inspire, develop and support today.”

Alex Leadley, Director of Skills and Workforce, UK Semiconductor Centre

UK semiconductor workforce in numbers

16,000

people employed in the UK semiconductor industry

295

dedicated semiconductor businesses in the UK

83%

of UK semiconductor businesses expected to grow in the next 3 years

Meet the workforce

Hear first-hand from people working across the UK semiconductor sector about what they do, the skills they use, how they got into the industry and what their careers are really like.

Featured Role

Meet Danielle, a Manufacturing Excellence Assistant Engineer at Clas-SiC

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Meet Danielle, a Manufacturing Excellence Assistant Engineer at Clas-SiC
Meet Mazid, an Epitaxy Development Lead at Paragraf
Meet Mazid, an Epitaxy Development Lead at Paragraf
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Meet Duncan, a Degree Apprentice and Process Engineer at Clas-SiC
Meet Duncan, a Degree Apprentice and Process Engineer at Clas-SiC
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Meet Emma, a Process Engineer at Custom Interconnect
Meet Emma, a Process Engineer at Custom Interconnect
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Meet Heather, a Lead Device Scientist at Pragmatic
Meet Heather, a Lead Device Scientist at Pragmatic
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Discover more

Explore support, opportunities and resources tailored to where you are in your journey – whether you’re studying, teaching or advising, already working in the industry, or an employer.